Australian cricket player Phillip Hughes dies after head injury
Australian cricket player Phillip Hughes has died at age 25, according to The Associated Press.
Hughes was struck in the head by a cricket ball during a domestic first-class match on Tuesday. He collapsed on the pitch and underwent emergency surgery at nearby hospital, remaining in a critical condition in an induced coma until his death.
"It is my sad duty to inform you that a short time ago Phillip Hughes passed away," Australian team doctor Peter Brukner said in a statement. "He never regained consciousness following his injury on Tuesday."
"As a cricket community we mourn his loss and extend our deepest sympathies to Phillip's family and friends at this incredibly sad time."
Dozens of teammates, former teammates and cricket officials visited Hughes, a member of South Australia, in the hospital over the last two days.
"We are devastated by the loss of our much-loved son and brother Phillip," Australia captain Michael Clarke said. "It has been a very difficult few days. We appreciated all the support we have received from family, friends, players, Cricket Australia and the general public."
Hughes is the second cricket player in the last two years to die from being struck in the head by a ball, according to the AP. 32-year-old Darryn Randall died last year during a Border Cricket Board Premier League match.
- Molly Geary
